Enjoy unique glamping holiday in Canada!
It is the perfect getaway from life’s hustle and bustle. Paddle through the water in search of orcas, humpback whales, and other wildlife, relax and enjoy happy-hour on the sun-warmed deck and enjoy from-scratch meals, a warm shower, and a comfortable bed at night.
Our 5-day ‘glamping’ style tour finds us in the heart of Blackfish Sound and the Broughton Archipelago in British Columbia- home of the wild orcas and humpback whales.
We begin this tour in Alder Bay on Vancouver Island and boat to the Spirit of the West Adventures unique camp located in Blackfish Sound where Northern resident killer whales and humpbacks return to feed, sleep and play each summer. This is your best chance to kayak with the killer whales and view Canadian wildlife responsibly. Our days of pristine paddling and exploring the beautiful coast and the world of the Canadian wildlife by kayaks are complemented by our camp that boasts a hot tub overlooking the Blackfish Sound, a hot shower with a spectacular view and spacious walk-in tents on raised cedar platforms, helping to protect the delicate ecosystem below. Bed built with locally sourced cedar wood, crisp white linens, warm duvets, and fleece blankets to make you feel comfortable. Falling asleep in the old-growth forest by the sea and to the sound of the whales can only be described as a unique wilderness experience.
Spirit of the West Adventures considers food to be a very important part of every adventure. From a wild lingcod dinner to chocolate fondue and home-baked desserts. A wonderful kitchen crew ensures all dietary needs and restrictions are met, providing creative culinary alternatives that will please vegetarians, vegans, gluten and wheat-free diets, and those with various allergies and food sensitivities. Of course, the food is hearty, healthy, full of flavour and fun.
Our adventures are for everyone and are designed to cater to all levels of experience and abilities. We take care to introduce you to the sport in a fun and safe manner. All that we ask is that you welcome adventure with an open mind and are able to laugh and have fun when encountering the unexpected. Our groups are small, in order to provide you with the best experience possible. We provide everything you need for a once in a lifetime kayaking adventure. High-quality fibreglass kayaks, paddling equipment, camp cookware, and eating utensils.
Our guides take care of you for the entire duration of your tour, prepare all meals, and have extensive training & experience in sea kayaking and in sharing the natural and cultural history of the area.
Overview
Perhaps one of British Columbia\'s best-kept secrets, Whales and Wilderness Glamping on Swanson Island in Blackfish Sound, Canada.
Itinerary
Itinerary for British Columbia Whales and Wilderness: Glamping in Canada
DAY 1
Rise and shine ready for fun and adventure. After meeting your guide team, we hop on our water taxi to boat across Johnstone Strait and Blackfish Sound to our private camp located on Swanson Island. En route, sightings of marine life such as porpoises, dolphins, sea lions and whales are common. After the 30 minute journey we arrive at our remote wilderness base camp on Blackfish Sound. After settling into our new surroundings, we will have a kayak orientation and discuss safety procedures before setting off on an afternoon paddle. We will return in time for a fresh wild lingcod dinner (alternatives of course for those who do not eat fish). Enjoy the sunset from the hot tub before retiring to rest for more fun in the morning.
DAY 2
After your first night glamping in Canada you will enjoy a hearty camp breakfast. We will then meet to discuss our plans for each day. Our route and schedule will depend on weather conditions, wildlife viewing opportunities and group preferences. Generally, we set out in our kayaks after breakfast and paddle to one of the area’s many pocket beaches for a picnic lunch before paddling ‘home’ again in time for some relaxation time before dinner.
DAY 3
Wake up to a morning coffee and another heart breakfast while listening to humpback blows in the early fog. We\'ll launch our kayaks once again for another day filled with adventure. As we go, we’ll take breaks for stretching and snacks, and we always take lots of time to explore the intricate shoreline. For the very brave there is always the option of a dip into the chilly waters of Blackfish Sound before a restorative soak in the hot tub upon our return in the afternoon.
DAY 4
Another day filled with adventure. Basecamping offers the flexibility to customize how much or how little you paddle. The morning will be filled with searching for intertidal life and marine mammals. We’ll return in time for lunch, followed by an optional afternoon kayaking the nearby waters and islands or quiet time relaxing in our waterfront lounge area.
DAY 5
This is our last day of exploration. After a final morning paddle we will pack up our things and soak up the last bit of tranquility before the water taxi arrives to transport us back to Alder Bay and the real world once again.
Provider Information
Gallery
What's Included
- Professional, detailed guiding service
- Hydrophone for listening to the whales
- High-quality kayaking equipment (fibreglass kayaks, PFDs, paddles, all safety gear)
- Meals including selected local wine for our guests to share at dinner time
- Whale watching trip on covered vessel
- Park and land use permits
- 4 nights accommodation at our glamping camp
What's Not Included
- Flights, airport transfers, ferries, taxis
- Travel/medical insurance
- Alcoholic or carbonated beverages
- Rain gear
- Personal items (toiletries, clothing, etc.)
